’tis the festive season and the Isle of Wight council is launching a drink drive campaign to remind motorists that good drivers don’t drive under the influence.
Drink driving is illegal and puts lives at risk as it impairs your ability to drive — even if it’s just one.
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The council has commissioned advertising space on bus shelters, car ferries as well as mobile advertising to raise awareness on the dangers of drink driving.
THINK! research shows that eight in ten young men agree that it is unacceptable to drive over the legal limit.
Campbell: Plan a safe route home
Lewis Campbell, the council’s road safety officer, said,
“If you’re visiting family and friends or attending an event, we encourage you to plan a safe route home.
“Use public transport, book a taxi or designate a driver who will remain sober. The designated driver doesn’t need to feel left out; they can drink alternatives such as soft drinks, mocktails or zero alcohol drinks.
“We would like to thank the majority of people who are safe and responsible motorists and encourage everybody, whether they are locals or visitors, to stay safe this Christmas.
“Drink driving is never worth the risk.”
Ball: Even having just one drink can massively alter your ability
PC Andrew Ball, of the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary and Thames Valley Police joint operations roads policing team, said,
“Our dedicated roads policing officers work tirelessly to make our roads safer, and this includes enforcing the law against drink drivers.
“Even having just one drink can massively alter your ability to maintain control of your vehicle and drive safely. It’s simply not worth the risk when you consider the utter devastation a serious injury or fatal collision could cause.
“We will be carrying out regular patrols this December throughout Operation Holly to target drink and drug drivers.”
Parsons: Don’t drink and drive. It’s simply not worth the risk
Luke Parsons, road and water safety lead officer for the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service, added,
“Once again, we are working closely with our partners to make our roads safer for everyone across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.
“The best way to deal with road traffic collisions is to prevent them from happening in the first place. It’s such an important message to get out to as many people as possible — don’t drink and drive. It’s simply not worth the risk.”
Check out the Drinkaware website for more information on drink driving.
What should you do if you know someone is drink or drug driving?
- If you know someone is drink or drug driving, call 999 if it is currently happening.
- Provide non-emergency information by calling 101.
Report the incident anonymously, via Crimestoppers.
News shared by Isle of Wight council press office, in their own words. Ed
